There are a few types of garden fences and they vary through their function, materials and orientation. This makes it crucial for people to understand and realize what they need and what they don’t for their garden, lawn or residence. While the options for their function and orientation are easily distinguishable, the choices regarding the materials used are very specific. This means that factors governing the option of which is better to put up on your space can drastically affect the durability and quality of the fence themselves. So to help you out, we list down the important factors that you have to consider for choosing which materials should you use for your future garden fence.

Climate

Since most garden fences are directly exposed to the climate, then it is obvious as to why it becomes a major regulating factor on its deterioration. Different places are exposed to different climates which people have to appropriate their fences with. For example, humid places can eat out at wooden fences rather quickly. Therefor in this case, it would be best to resort to metal or vinyl fences. Not only does the fence survive longer under that sort of elemental exhaustion, but it also reduces the frequency of required maintenance procedures. Other big players in terms of climate/weather are consistent sun exposure (for tropical places), wind water damage (for places with variably long rainfalls).

Durability

The materials used in garden fences also vary in their durability. This suggests that certain materials can thrive longer against other materials under same external circumstances. Steel fences are often preferred because of their durability. However, there are also instances where other materials excel than steel.

Amount of upkeep

Having garden fences put up also requires them being maintained. By maintain, we mean yearly replacements, monthly check-ups and varied damage control. Fortunately, different materials require different frequencies of upkeep. This gives you a lot of avenue to think about which materials you could maintain properly (considering your time and availability).

Surroundings

Your surroundings, including neighbours and visitors, must also be considered in choosing the materials you want for your garden fence. Remember that there is proper fencing etiquette between neighbours. Therefore, an open fence design is usually the go-to design. These designs are often associated with steel and vinyl materials. However, if you’d prefer some more privacy, close board fences using wood would be preferable.

Budget

Of course, your budget must always be considered when choosing your materials. Usually, traditional wood fences cost a bit more than the alternatives. Whichever your option is, just remember to properly plan ahead. Remember that you are not only budgeting for the cost of the fencing process but also for the upcoming maintenance needs.

Now that you have these factors in mind, soak it all in and choose wisely. The last thing you’d want to happen is for your garden fence to be incomplete or deteriorate way early than it is expected to be.

The materials you use for garden fencing dictates how well the fence performs and how long it can last. This means you should really consider weighing out the pros and cons of these materials before you fix in on a decision. To help you figure out which works for you and your space, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the commonly used materials for garden fencing.

Wood Fencing

ADVANTAGES: Wood is usually preferred because of the natural vibe it gives off. Its rustic charm is incomparable and it is relatively cheaper than the other alternatives. They are also very manageable which means they can be easily cut into different sizes and shape that works for you.

DISADVANTAGES: They are more susceptible to deterioration since they are not synthetically made. Therefore, wooden fences require much more maintenance and this can get real expensive in the long run especially if the wood is not acclimated to the surroundings. Termites and other pests can also join the party and deal serious amount of damage on your planks and posts.

Chain-link Fencing

ADVANTAGES: Chain-link is considerably the cheapest among the other materials usually used for garden fencing. They are also very flexible which could offer you a lot of options on how to orient them in the space you want. Additionally, they are durable and are produced to be rust-free (for a long time that is) which means less maintenance is required.

DISADVANTAGES: Some find chain-link fences to be unattractive or straight up poignant (because they are commonly used in prisons and holding facilities). They look rugged and are not as decent-looking as some of the other materials. Moreover, it does not increase privacy at all because it is easy to climb over to and it is obviously riddled with holes (so it doesn’t block sounds or noise too).

Vinyl Fencing

ADVANTAGES: Vinyl has been rapidly increasing in popularity over the past few years and became a good alternative for wood and chain-link as a garden fence material. It is relatively stronger than wood and it lasts longer too. Vinyl is also more flexible than wood and is not high-maintenance since it can remain rust free and cleaning is very easy.

DISADVANTAGES: The benefits of this material are made up for its price. Aside from that, damages on the fence are hard to address so a professional might always be needed. It also reacts with other elemental circumstances which sometimes causes it to form cracks.

Wrought iron Fencing

ADVANTAGES: Wrought iron fences are known for their gorgeous designs and classy feel. Moreover, they are durable, strong and extremely resilient. Therefore, they are good for security and decorative purposes. They are also rust proof (when painted over) and are not susceptible to pest infestations.

DISADVANTAGES: They are really heavy so you would want to have professionals install them for you. They also develop rust spots on parts where paint chipped off. Therefore, wrought iron fences require a routine check-up for every month or so just to ensure that they are well coated. More importantly, this is the most expensive option out of the others in this list which makes it a bit unnecessary for those who are on a budget.

Knowing the material you’ll use for garden fencing is serious because it dictates the outcome and utility you’ll get from your investment. So jot down these pros and cons and weight your options carefully. You can also ask a professional near you regarding what is best for your space.

Making your home child-friendly is no easy joke. Your dear ones tend to cause of lot of trouble. Sometimes, they are the ones troubled too. They can’t understand the basic house rules. Their sensitivity differs greatly from ours. They won’t be a fan of your loud music. Here’s how to make your home child-friendly, besides getting rid of your unruly dog and hiring a nanny.

Electric outlets:

Electricity and kids make a lethal combination. It is the least kid friendly aspect of your home. Install covers on every electric outlet. If the outlet isn’t being used, it should remain closed. Through renovation, make outlets go higher from the reach of your dear ones. Try to cover outlets smartly by use of furniture.

Bathrooms:

What’s the real danger that a bathroom brings? It’s pretty simple. Your child tends to fall anytime in those slippery floors. Consider using rubber mats for bathroom floor. Instead of standard tiles, switch to anti-slip tiles. Ensure the soap is trapped in a tray to avoid slip-ups.

Stairs:

Misuse of stairs and being careless there, can severely injure adults. Imagine the fate of children in that spot. Add slip proof matting in stairs. Teach your children about using the stairs safely. Apply non-slip grip on stair handles. Use heavy matting at the bottom of stairs, where impact will be extreme during a fall.

Kitchen:

Your kitchen is no picnic to your child. It involves major dangers like fire, knives, forks and other sharp objects. As a first step, choose an oven that has children safety features. Oven is no place for a child to have access.

Furniture:

Children show more eagerness than adults, especially with new objects. Make sure, the cabinets are not there waiting for a fall. Corners of chairs and tables should possess cushion in case a child hits head with it. Believe it, children are that crazy.

Cynthia Azali

Hello, my name is Cynthia Azali-Rojas. I am a leadership coach and organizational development consultant.

As a leadership coach I support people from all walks of life including women, working class, Black, Latino, and immigrant leaders. Working together, we clarify your personal and professional aspirations and, as we embrace the gifts you offer the world